The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has successfully empowered approximately 100 women in the Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) with essential skills and business equipment aimed at enhancing their financial independence and self-reliance.
The training programme, tagged: “Lifeskills Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP)” for Residents of Eti-Osa East had participants trained in a variety of vocational skills, including makeup application, headgear tying, catering, throw pillow creation, fabric stoning and embellishment, and soap-making.
Each beneficiary also received a comprehensive start-up pack containing the necessary tools to immediately launch their businesses from home.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for WAPA, Hon. Bolaji Dada emphasised the initiative’s goal of fostering entrepreneurship among women, providing them not only with skills but also with the equipment needed to thrive economically.
Represented by the Director of the Women’s Department, Mrs. Olufunke Shyllon, the Commissioner said, “This training marks the beginning of new opportunities and pathways toward a brighter future for the beneficiaries.”
Hon. Dada acknowledged the myriad challenges women face in the economic landscape, including limited access to resources, societal norms, and opportunities that may hinder their progress.
In her words, “The skills and knowledge you have acquired are invaluable assets that can transform your economic circumstances. Remember, it is not merely about learning; it’s about applying what you’ve learned in practical ways that can lead to sustainable income generation and growth. You are pioneers, breaking the chains of poverty and laying the groundwork for future generations of women to thrive.”
Chairman of Eti-Osa East LCDA, Hon. John Ogundare highlighted the significance of the empowerment initiative as a vital step in the urbanisation process of the community.
He urged beneficiaries to make effective use of both the skills and equipment they received, emphasising the importance of financial independence.
“To ensure the economic growth of our community, I pledge to organise empowerment programmes every quarter. When an individual in the community is happy, the community will experience peace”, Ogundare stated.
He reiterated his commitment to supporting the beneficiaries by placing orders for their products and establishing schemes to connect them with clients.
Among the beneficiaries was a 19-year-old Aisha Olayiwola who expressed her excitement about the opportunity to learn valuable skills for making a living. She said the training has equipped her with the knowledge to create creams, lotions, and soaps, which will financially support her when she returns to school.
